Evidence supporting the use of: Branched-Chain Amino Acids
For the health condition: Cirrhosis of the Liver

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs)—comprising leucine, isoleucine, and valine—have scientific support for use in cirrhosis of the liver, particularly for hepatic encephalopathy and improving nutritional status. Patients with cirrhosis often experience reduced plasma BCAA levels and increased aromatic amino acids, contributing to altered neurotransmitter synthesis and muscle wasting (sarcopenia). Multiple randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses suggest that BCAA supplementation can improve hepatic encephalopathy symptoms and may help maintain muscle mass in these patients. For example, a 2017 Cochrane review found that oral BCAAs may have a beneficial effect on hepatic encephalopathy compared to placebo or no intervention. The European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism (ESPEN) and the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD) both acknowledge the potential benefits of BCAA supplementation in selected populations with cirrhosis, particularly those with recurrent hepatic encephalopathy or protein-energy malnutrition. However, evidence for improvement in overall survival is limited, and the effect size for functional or quality-of-life outcomes is modest. In summary, BCAAs have a scientific basis for use as adjunct therapy in cirrhosis, especially for hepatic encephalopathy and nutritional support, but they are not a cure and should be used as part of comprehensive medical management.

More about Branched-Chain Amino Acids
More about Cirrhosis of the Liver

Products containing Branched-Chain Amino Acids

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.